Your Rights When Hit by a Car Crossing a Crosswalk

Motorcyclists face dangers on the road. Learn why it's crucial to seek legal representation after your motorcycle is hit by a commercial vehicle.

Being involved in a hit and run accident can be an extremely scary and frustrating experience. Not only are you dealing with the injuries from the accident, along with property damage to your vehicle, but you are now trying to figure out what to do about the person that hit you and took off. Don’t worry. All is not lost. Read the following tips, and call a lawyer as soon as you can. There are still ways to ensure you can get your vehicle damage covered, along with a personal injury claim. 1. Remain Calm and Ensure you are in a Safe Spot Immediately following a hit and run in Colorado Springs, it's crucial to maintain composure. In the chaotic aftermath, staying calm allows for a more effective response. If possible, moving to a secure location away from ongoing traffic helps mitigate further risks. Taking a few deep breaths and collecting oneself sets the tone for the steps that follow. 2. Call Emergency Services and File a Police Report Dialing 911 is not just a formality; it's a critical step in the response process. When reporting the hit and run, providing precise details about the accident is essential. This includes a clear account of what happened and, if there are injuries involved, requesting immediate medical assistance. The initial call establishes a direct line of communication with emergency services, expediting their response. If you are on the phone with 911, you can give a good description of the at-fault vehicle, and the direction it is headed, giving law enforcement a head start in finding the perpetrator. In addition, filing a police report, or having officers at the scene to draft a report, is not just a legal formality but a key step in initiating investigations. Reporting the hit and run promptly to local law enforcement provides them with essential details to begin the process. This formal record becomes a cornerstone in building a case, assisting authorities in their pursuit of the responsible party. 3. Gather Information After ensuring safety, the focus shifts to gathering comprehensive information about the incident. Documenting the time, date, and location is foundational. When it comes to the other vehicle, recording details such as make, model, color, and the license plate number creates a thorough record. As stated above, trying to see the direction the vehicle went is crucial for quick law enforcement action. Witnesses can be huge in providing information both relating to the facts of the collision, and who is at fault, and additional information relating to the vehicle itself, like license plate, etc. Collecting contact information from witnesses adds valuable perspectives that can contribute to subsequent investigations. 4. Photograph the Scene Visual documentation is a powerful tool. Taking photographs of the overall scene captures the context of the accident. Close-up shots of damages to both vehicles and license plates provide a detailed visual record. This documentation becomes crucial when dealing with authorities and insurance companies, offering tangible evidence of the extent of the damages. 5. Seek Medical Attention Seeking medical attention is not just a precautionary measure but a necessary step. Even seemingly minor injuries can have latent consequences. A prompt medical examination helps identify and address potential issues early on, safeguarding your health. Keeping meticulous records of medical examinations, treatments, and related expenses is crucial for both your well-being and potential legal claims. In addition, a record of consistent medical treatment can help with any ongoing injury claim with your insurance company. 6. Contacting Your Insurance Company Immediate communication with your insurance company is essential for a swift claims process. Notifying them promptly about the hit and run and supplying all gathered information, including photos and details from the police report, streamlines the claims process. Proactively involving your insurance provider ensures a cooperative approach in resolving the aftermath. If the hit and run driver was uninsured, or is not found, you will likely have an uninsured motorist claim with your insurance company if you were injured. Notice, communication, and record keeping, are all important components of a UM claim  7. Hire a Personal Injury Attorney When identifying the responsible party becomes challenging, considering legal assistance is prudent. Consulting with a legal professional provides guidance on navigating insurance claims and potential legal actions. Their expertise ensures that your rights are protected, and they can address complexities that may arise during the process, offering valuable support. In addition, as stated above, even if the at-fault party is not found, you will likely have a UM claim with your insurance company for you injuries. Just like any other personal injury claim, you will most likely need a personal injury attorney to pursue the UM claim, and obtain the settlement you deserve for your injuries and pain and suffering. Remember, hiring a personal injury attorney is generally free up-front, as most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. 8. Remember – all is not lost If you are involved in a hit and run, all is not lost. Unless physically waived, Colorado requires a minimum of $25,000 in Uninsured Motorist Coverage. As such, even if you, or we, are never able to find the at-fault driver, or their insurance, you will likely still be able to recover a settlement from your insurance company. CONCLUSION Hit and run accidents can be a scary experience. But, don’t be concerned. Keeping calm, gathering the appropriate pictures and documentation, and speaking with an attorney experienced in handling hit and run accident claims can help make you whole once again. If you have been involved in a hit and run accident in Colorado Springs, CO, please do not hesitate to call the experienced attorneys at Frederick | Ganderton LLP at (719) 888-6118 .

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